If you’ve dipped your toes into the world of dating apps, you’ve likely met someone who describes their relationship as “ethical non-monogamy.” These folks are enthusiastic about sharing their relationship rules. While there’s nothing wrong with this approach, it often comes across as a little too self-satisfied, which can be off-putting.
Enter Splitsville, a new comedy by Kyle Marvin and Michael Angelo Covino. The film dives into the messy lives of a group of friends navigating love, relationships, and open boundaries. Released a few years after open relationships became a hot topic, particularly in New York, Splitsville cleverly brings this theme back to the forefront.
The story kicks off with Carey and Ashley, played by Marvin and Adria Arjona. Their marriage ends abruptly during a car ride, setting off a series of chaotic events. This moment is brilliantly captured by cinematographer Adam Newport-Berra, leaving you questioning just how messy things will become.
Carey, feeling lost, heads to his best friend Paul’s beach house. Paul, a confident real estate agent, and his wife, Julie (Dakota Johnson), provide comic relief. They suggest that navigating marriage—and divorce—is no picnic. They claim to have an open marriage, built on emotional maturity. It sounds great, but as the story unfolds, we see jealousy rearing its ugly head.
One funny moment occurs when Carey considers sleeping with Julie, leading to unexpected complications. The actors bring a refreshing honesty to their roles, making their characters relatable despite their flaws.
Splitsville cleverly critiques the sometimes lofty ideals of modern relationships. In one humorous scene, a heartbroken chiropractor laments his misalignment with the universe, poking fun at overly serious jargon often found in self-help circles.
Despite a few moments where the film’s plot might stretch credibility, it ultimately strikes a balance between comedy and genuine emotion. The chemistry among the characters gives life to their often messy entanglements, reminding us that regardless of the structure of our relationships, we all deal with similar feelings and challenges.
As the film progresses, it’s clear that open or closed, everyone wrestles with the same emotions. The insights here resonate with many viewers, reflecting how love and relationships can be both hilarious and heartbreaking.
In recent years, open relationships and non-monogamy have sparked discussions on social media, with hashtags like #OpenRelationships trending. This growing interest highlights a cultural shift in how we view love and partnership. According to a 2022 survey by the Kinsey Institute, nearly 25% of singles have explored some form of non-monogamy, compared to just 17% in 2017. It seems that more people are questioning traditional norms and embracing diverse ways to connect.
Splitsville offers a comedic lens on these evolving dynamics, making it both timely and relatable. Love may be complicated, but that just adds to the richness of our shared experiences.